Lafayette Leopards vs Butler Bulldogs Betting Picks & Predictions
Butler will beat Lafayette, with a projected final of Butler 84, Lafayette 65. Jalen Jackson’s productive exhibition return supplies the strongest scoring argument for the Bulldogs, although their exhibition defense makes a comfortable cover less convincing. Neither Butler -20.5 (-110) nor the 149.5 total at -110 offers a strong enough edge for an actionable wager. The official SportsJaw recommendation is Pass.
Lafayette Leopards vs Butler Bulldogs prediction and best bet
Pick Butler to win its season opener behind Jalen Jackson, who scored 46 points on 18-for-30 shooting across his final two exhibitions. That recent production gives the Bulldogs a concrete offensive foundation for Ronald Nored’s first regular-season game as head coach. The forecast is Butler 84, Lafayette 65.
The best betting decision is Pass. Butler’s opponents averaged 84 points during its three exhibitions, a concern when laying 20.5 points. Lafayette returns Shareef Jackson, an experienced starter with rebounding and shot-blocking contributions, while both teams must integrate newcomers. Butler has the more persuasive winning case, but the evidence leaves considerable room for the final margin and scoring total to vary.
Odds, game time and how to watch
Game: Lafayette at Butler, NCAA men’s basketball, Monday, November 2, 2026. This is the teams’ first meeting and their 2026-27 regular-season opener.
Tipoff: 7 p.m. ET at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
Broadcast: ESPN+, with Anthony Mazzini and Joey Brunk.
Previous season: Butler finished 16-16 overall and 7-13 in Big East play.
SportsJaw odds: Lafayette Leopards +19.5 (-110); Butler Bulldogs -19.5 (-110). Moneyline: Lafayette Leopards +1,600; Butler Bulldogs -4,500. Total: Over 149.5 (-115); Under 149.5 (-108).